Today, technology has taken over virtually every part of your reality, and millions can’t imagine their lives without it anymore. Here are some tips about how to protect your eyes from a computer.
In support of this assumption, the latest statistics show that an average American spends around seven hours a day in front of their screens.
But is it really that surprising? After all, we reach for our phones as soon as we wake up. During work hours, we stare at our laptops and then at our phones during breaks. Later in the day, we keep ourselves busy texting, scrolling, or watching Netflix.
Technology can be fun and useful. However, it is important to use it sparingly to avoid short-term and long-term consequences – too much screen time can lead to digital eye strain (or computer vision syndrome).
Researchers have found that people blink less when using phones and computers, which causes their eyes to become more dry and irritated and can even lead to eye strain. This condition can cause increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, burning eyes, and difficulty concentrating.
Don’t wait up – read the article below to learn how to prevent eye strain when spending your whole day working in front of the computer screen.
Choose The Right Glasses
Some jobs require staring at the screen for eight hours a day. In such a case, even if you have good eyesight, you shouldn’t just hope that using the computer for so long won’t affect it. In fact, your vision might deteriorate with time if you do nothing to protect your eyes.
Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist in order to determine if you need special eyewear, such as blue light glasses.
A qualified doctor can also prescribe you special protection glasses and lenses and even order you to start vision therapy. Furthermore, people who wear contact lenses should give their eyes a break by switching to glasses from time to time.
It’s also recommended that you check your eyesight every year, even if you do not have any eye problems.
If you have myopia, hyperopia, or both, it should be checked more often. Your sight is incredibly important, so don’t hesitate to take all the preventional measures you can.
Take Regular Breaks
Changing your work habits can reduce eye strain and protect your eyes. These days, it’s easy to find a program for your computer or a browser extension that will remind you to take regular breaks.
This way, you’ll have no excuses and always find time to give your eyes a quick yet much-needed break.
You can also choose to use a simple 20-20-20 rule. For twenty seconds, look at least twenty feet away every twenty minutes.
When you’re on a longer break, such as the one dedicated to your lunch, take a few seconds to visit a bathroom and wash your face with cold water during the break.
Work In The Right Environment
The digital device you are working with should be placed at the right distance and correct position. The ophthalmologists recommend keeping the screen at the level of your eyes (or a bit below them) at arm’s length. Make sure your screen is not too bright – it shouldn’t be brighter than the surroundings.
Also, feel free to adjust text size in the settings, and remember to switch the websites and programs you use to dark mode whenever possible.
Another good practice is to find a space on your desk for a green plant. Plants in the office can serve as stress relievers and replenish your attention capacity, and it’s also good to focus on something green when your eyes need rest.
Use Eye Drops
Digital eye strain can also be caused by not blinking as much when using computers. Eye drops can be used as a fast and effective solution that helps to stop dry eyes and irritation.
You can invest in eye drops that come in a liquid form, but some people find them hard to squeeze and apply to the eye.
In this case, it may be better to opt for eye drops that come in a gel form and create a thick and protective shield around your eyeballs, providing extended relief and protection.
Try out a few different brands before settling on the one that fits your needs and preferences best, and keep it in your desk drawer for easy access.
Take Care Of The Air Quality
Poor air quality can also be the cause behind your eye strain, especially if you spend eight hours working in an office environment.
Air conditioners, which are often used in many modern offices, reduce humidity and can cause dryness of the eyes, redness, itchiness, irritation, and eye strain, among other unpleasant or even potentially dangerous conditions.
A humidifier can improve the air quality in your office. If you’re still experiencing issues with your eyes and suspect the air conditioning might be at fault, you might consider working from home at least a few days a week. If remote work is not possible, find a separate space where the AC can be turned off.
Limit Your Screen Time
If you can’t avoid spending long hours working on your computer, especially if you work an office job, then try to limit screen time at your home as much as possible.
For instance, reading a book on paper is better than reading it on your phone or tablet. You may also choose to entertain yourself by going out in the evening, cooking a tasty meal for the next day, assembling jigsaw puzzles, or playing with your pet.
A long, slow-paced walk around your neighborhood is also an excellent way to spend the evening without putting a strain on your eyes.
In Conclusion
Eye strain can make it difficult to work, and it can also lead to serious eye problems that, over time, may require constant medical attention.
Eye health and proper work hygiene are important to prevent vision problems in the future. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to protect your eyes.
For example, you can visit a doctor to get prescriptions for special lenses or glasses to help reduce the eye strain caused by digital screens. Remember to take breaks and follow the 20-20-20 rule when working.
You can also adjust your screen, take care of your surroundings, avoid working in rooms with air conditioning, and limit your screen time when you’re at home. Take care!